Stearic Acid
| Formula: | C₁₈H₃₆O₂ |
| CAS Number: | 57-11-4 |
| EC Number (EINECS): | 200-313-4 |
| HS Code: | 38231100 |
| UN Number: | Not classified as dangerous goods |
| IUPAC Name: | Octadecanoic Acid |
| Also Known As: | Octadecylic Acid; Stearophanic Acid |
| Molecular Weight, g/mol: | 284.48 |
Typical Specifications
| Appearance: | White to off-white waxy solid / flakes |
| Odor: | Mild, characteristic fatty odor |
| Melting Point, °C: | 69–70 |
| Boiling Point, °C: | 361 (decomposes) |
| Density, g/cm³ (at 20°C): | 0.94 |
| Flash Point, °C: | >110 (closed cup) |
| Grades Available: | Industrial, Cosmetic, Pharmaceutical, Food |
| Packaging: | 25kg bags, 50kg bags, jumbo bags |
Product Details
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Formula: C₁₈H₃₆O₂
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EC Number (EINECS): 200-313-4
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HS Code: 38231100
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UN Number: Not classified as dangerous goods
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IUPAC Name: Octadecanoic Acid
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Also Known As: Octadecylic Acid; Stearophanic Acid
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Molecular Weight, g/mol: 284.48
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CAS Number: 57-11-4
Typical Specifications
Data is representative of average lots; data taken from specific lots may vary.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White to off-white waxy solid / flakes |
| Odor | Mild, characteristic fatty odor |
| Melting Point, °C | 69–70 |
| Boiling Point, °C | 361 (decomposes) |
| Density, g/cm³ (at 20°C) | 0.94 |
| Flash Point, °C | >110 (closed cup) |
| Solubility (in water) | Insoluble |
| Solubility (in alcohols) | Soluble in ethanol, chloroform, ether |
| Acid Value (mg KOH/g) | 205–210 |
| Iodine Value (g I₂/100g) | ≤1.0 |
| Saponification Value | 206–211 |
| Purity, % (total fatty acids) | ≥98.5 |
| Grades Available | Industrial, Cosmetic, Pharmaceutical, Food |
| Packaging | 25kg bags, 50kg bags, jumbo bags |
Applications / Uses
Primary Applications
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Emulsifier, thickener, and lubricant in cosmetics and personal care products
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Intermediate in surfactant and soap manufacturing
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Used in rubber and plastic processing as a lubricant and release agent
Secondary Applications
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Tablet excipient in pharmaceuticals
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Additive in candles, crayons, and wax products
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Used in textile softeners and coatings
End Industries Served: Cosmetics & Personal Care, Pharmaceuticals, Food, Rubber & Plastics, Textiles, Chemicals, Candle & Wax Industry
Safety & Handling Information
Hazard Class (GHS): Generally regarded as safe (GRAS); may cause mild irritation in pure form
Hazard Statements (H-Codes):
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H319: Causes serious eye irritation (dust/powder)
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H335: May cause respiratory irritation (dust)
Precautionary Statements (P-Codes):
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P280: Wear protective gloves/eye protection
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P261: Avoid inhaling dust/fume
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P305 + P351 + P338: IF IN EYES – rinse cautiously with water, remove contact lenses if present
Storage Conditions
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Store in a cool, dry, ventilated place
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Protect from direct sunlight and moisture
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Keep packaging sealed to prevent contamination
Transport Information
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ADR/RID: Not classified as dangerous goods
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IMDG: Not classified as dangerous goods
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IATA: Not classified as dangerous goods